First vote on new Johnson City data center rules could happen as soon as next week
Johnson City, TN is finalizing new rules for data centers, addressing zoning, noise, and environmental impacts. These proposed ordinances require companies to undergo multiple studies and present before public bodies for comment. The city commission is expected to vote on the regulations in July and August, following a planning commission presentation in June.
Johnson City, Tennessee, is nearing the completion of new regulations for data centers, driven by a committee's year-long effort to prevent issues like a noisy Bitcoin mine in nearby Limestone. Committee member Sylvain Bruni stated that two ordinances are being drafted, covering zoning and noise, and will address critical areas identified in surveys. City Manager Cathy Ball confirmed that a noise and vibration study is currently underway by a consultant, gathering data from various industrial sites.
The proposed zoning rules, expected for a vote as early as next week, will include standard protections such as setbacks and buffers to mitigate impacts on neighbors. Additionally, these rules will mandate that data center companies appear before the Board of Zoning Appeals for public comment and conduct multiple studies. These studies include a pre-construction assessment, a predictive model of impact based on facility design, and annual compliance evaluations covering utilities and environmental effects. Bruni anticipates the new zoning rules will be presented to the planning commission on June 9, with the city commission scheduled for three votes on July 2, July 16 (including a public hearing), and August 6.